London to Athens Plus | Start Paris | Summer | Season 2024

London to Athens Plus | Start Paris | Summer | Season 2024

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London to Athens Plus | Start Paris | Summer | Season 2024

17 Days Starting in Paris and ending in Athens

Visiting: Calais, Dover, Paris, London, Lyon, Barcelona, Arles, French Riviera, Monaco City, Venice, Eze, Florence, Pisa, Rome, Baschi, Pompeii, Bari, Athens, Corinth Canal, Patras

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBLGE19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 53

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Take the slow & steady road from London to Athens, allowing yourself time to witness a French cabaret show, roam Barcelona's romantic Gothic Quarter and fall head over heels for ancient Rome. With just 7 countries in 17 days, you'll be no novice in these iconic destinations by the time the trip's complete.

Highlights

  • Explore the White Cliffs of Dover and Visit the Valley of the Somme and its World War I battlefields.

  • Guided tour of Montparnasse Tower in Paris and Experience the historical and architectural haven of Lyon.

  • Visit the ancient Roman Arena in Arles and frolic on the French Riviera.

  • Visit a traditional French perfumery in Eze and Visit Pompeii and sail on the Overnight Adriatic Ferry to Greece.

  • Discover the floating city of Venice including a private boat ride and a visit to Burano.

  • Island hopping in Greece: Mykonos Paros and Santorini including beaches local villages and historical sites.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : London To Paris

Location: Calais, Dover, Paris, London

Accommodation: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to the first day of the best trip of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights.

A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on our trip.

After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme.

We'll kick off our trip as we arrive in the glittering city of love, Paris. To start things off, we'll bond with our Contiki fam with a delicious included dinner, followed by a guided tour of the Montparnasse Tower and then a guided tour of the city itself.

Day 2 : Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's the day to stroll the beautiful streets of Paris, with plenty of time to lust over designer haute couture or French vintage stores, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, order coffee and crêpes, or get artsy at the Louvre. Tonight, foodies will have the chance to eat a Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Otherwise, this is your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show. Either option will give you the perfect way to make it one to remember!

Day 3 : Paris To Lyon

Location: Lyon, Paris

Accommodation: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we’ll have breakfast and then be on our merry way to the next stop: time for lovely lovely Lyon.
Blue skies and sultry red roofs – oh yeah, we’re in Lyon! Tonight you’re free to wander this historical and architectural haven with your Contiki crew.

Day 4 : Lyon

Location: Lyon

Accommodation: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you’ll have a full day to explore France’s second-largest city. Don’t miss the Notre Dame Basilica & St Jean Baptiste Cathedral, the ancient outdoor theaters inspired by the Romans and of course, the museums! If you need a rest, you can’t beat a stroll (or a nap) in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. Need something to eat? Well, we can confirm you’re in the right place…

Day 5 : Lyon To Barcelona

Location: Barcelona, Lyon

Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Campanile Barcelona Cornellà-Sud (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We'll head to Barcelona bright and early this morning... but not until after breakfast.
Welcome to España! Known for its chilled-out vibes, welcoming atmosphere and culture of acceptance and tolerance, there’s nowhere quite like Barcelona. Tonight you’re free to explore and check out the city’s many exceptional eateries.

Day 6 : Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Campanile Barcelona Cornellà-Sud (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, Montjuic hilltop vistas, & wild Spanish architecture will season our day to perfection. There's plenty of free time to roam free or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.

Day 7 : Barcelona To French Riviera Via Arles

Location: Arles, Barcelona, French Riviera

Accommodation: Hotel Busby (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Appart City Nice Acropolis (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more...

After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town.

You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.

Day 8 : French Riviera And Monaco

Location: French Riviera, French Riviera, Monaco City

Accommodation: Hotel Busby (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Appart City Nice Acropolis (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission.

Please tell us you didn't throw away all of your pennies today? Because you're going to want a few spare coins tonight so you can play fancy. We're visiting Monaco tonight, and you'll have the chance to visit the Monte Carlo Casino & the Royal Palace, followed by a delicious optional dinner!

After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.

Day 9 : French Riviera To Venice

Location: Venice, French Riviera, Eze

Accommodation: LH Hotel Sirio Venice (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we say our farewells to the French Riviera and take our first jaunt into Italy, taking in the sights of Liguria, Lombardia, & the Veneto regions along the way. Pizza, pasta, & charming locals are just around the corner.

But before we cross the border into Italy, we’ll make a fragrant pitstop here in Eze to visit a traditional French perfumery – where you’ll even have the chance to craft a signature scent of your own.

The floating city of gondolas, canals and pretty bridges - what a splendid way to commence our Italian love affair. Rest up tonight, you'll want to be alert for tomorrow's magical agenda.

Day 10 : Venice

Location: Venice

Accommodation: LH Hotel Sirio Venice (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake-up sleeping beauties! Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. A trip to the colorful Venetian island of Burano and a gondola ride are up for grabs… or you can just get lost on your own and see where the magical maze takes you.

Day 11 : Venice To Florence Via Pisa

Location: Venice, Florence, Pisa

Accommodation: A conveniently located hotel

Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Venice we love you, but we need to see a bit more of this boot to satisfy our hungry wanderlust ways.

As if we were going to leg it from Venice to Florence without a sneaky side trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be down right criminal.

For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with a drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo.

Day 12 : Florence

Location: Florence

Accommodation: A conveniently located hotel

Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ready for a full day of all things Florence? Today is the perfect balance of guided local wisdom and free time to roam. We'll uncover the beautiful art of traditional leatherwork, explore streets bursting with heritage, and see all the top sights on a walking tour. This afternoon you'll have free time to take to the local markets and taste the local gelato before a special optional evening out tonight, a visit to a 14th century Certosan monastry, followed by dinner and wine at a magical Tuscan restaurant nestled in the countryside nearby.

Day 13 : Florence To Rome

Location: Florence, Rome, Baschi

Accommodation: Hotel Santa Costanza (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Pineta Palace Hotel Roma (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Farewell Florence - today we have the epicenter of Italy on our horizons. Pizza, piazzas...we're coming in hot. But not before one rather extraordinary stop-off.

En-route to Rome, we’ll visit Casale Polegri – an organic Umbrian farm where we’ll feast on local pasta, olives, wine and more fresh local produce.

And here… we… are… Back city side in the Italian capital of Rome. After a brief orientation tour from your Trip Manager, you’re free to check out the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Piazza Navona with your Contiki crew.

Day 14 : Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Hotel Santa Costanza (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Pineta Palace Hotel Roma (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

When in Rome... This is the day to learn a thing or two about the Colosseum & do a bit of your own exploring. Espressos and people watching should be high priority… Stuck for something to do this evening? There’s plenty of pasta, gelato and caprese salad stops to keep you occupied – and don’t get us started on the wine.

Day 15 : Rome To Overnight Adriatic Ferry

Location: Pompeii, Rome, Bari, Rome

Accommodation: Overnight Ferry

Accommodation Name: Overnight Ferry

Meals Included: Breakfast

As completely satisfied as we already are with our Italian odyssey, we have one more stop before we're a walking talking guidebook on this beautiful boot. Goodbye Rome, hello Pompeii.

Once a totally vibing hang-out of the Romans, Pompeii is now an archaeological site showing remains of what was destroyed in the year...wait for it...79AD. When you choose the optional guided tour saying "stepping back in time" is about to take on a whole new meaning!

We'll hop aboard our Overnight Adriatic Ferry and set sail.

Although we don't arrive in Athens tonight, it's in our sight! Drift off to sleep to the sway of our boat knowing tomorrow you'll wake in a brand new country.

Day 16 : Overnight Adriatic Ferry To Athens

Location: Athens, Corinth Canal, Patras, Athens

Accommodation: Athens Center Square Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Athens Center Square Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ahoy there, we'll be sailing the Adriatic this morning headed for land...

We'll roll off the boat in Patras and then it's straight back on the road.

The awe of Greece's mainland will begin shortly after our arrival as we catch a glimpse of Corinth Canal. This man-made passageway squeezes boats through its path, sandwiched by two steep cliffs and sitting over gloriously blue ocean.

A collage of ancient wonders and modern magnificence, the allure of Athens is hard to dismiss. Choose to sample more traditional Greek food with an optional dinner with your new friends in this ancient city.

Day 17 : End Athens

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hugs, tears, and a final batch of reminiscing; it's astounding how close a group can get in just two short weeks, but not before our Local Guide will escort us through the history of the city visiting the Parthenon and the Acropolis, as well as the first modern Olympic Stadium, host of the 1896 Games.

What's Included

  • Guided Tours

    Enjoy guided tours of iconic locations such as the White Cliffs of Dover, Montparnasse Tower in Paris, the ancient Roman Arena in Arles, Pompeii, and the historical sites of Athens including the Parthenon and the Acropolis.

  • Special Experiences

    Experience unique activities like a private boat ride in Venice, a visit to a traditional French perfumery in Eze, and an overnight Adriatic ferry to Greece.

  • Accommodations

    Stay in comfortable hotels and accommodations throughout your journey, including cities like Paris, Lyon, Barcelona, Venice, Florence, Rome, and Athens.

  • Meals

    Enjoy included meals throughout your trip, offering a taste of local cuisine in various destinations.

  • Transportation

    Travel comfortably with all transportation between tour destinations included, ensuring a seamless experience as you explore Europe.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection.

  • Some Meals

    While many meals are included, some will be at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.

  • Optional Activities

    Some activities and excursions are optional and may incur additional costs.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and other incidental costs are not included.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the starting location of the tour?

    The tour starts in Paris.

  • What is the ending location of the tour?

    The tour ends in Athens.

  • What countries will we visit on the London to Athens tour?

    The tour visits England, France, Spain, Monaco, Italy, and Greece.

  • What kind of accommodations can we expect?

    You will stay in comfortable hotels and accommodations throughout your journey, including cities like Paris, Lyon, Barcelona, Venice, Florence, Rome, and Athens.

  • Is travel insurance included?

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection.

  • Are airport transfers included?

    Airport transfers are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.

  • Are there any guided tours included?

    Yes, enjoy guided tours of iconic locations such as the White Cliffs of Dover, Montparnasse Tower in Paris, the ancient Roman Arena in Arles, Pompeii, and the historical sites of Athens including the Parthenon and the Acropolis.

  • What is the primary focus of the tour?

    The primary focus of the tour is coach tours (worldwide).

  • What are some of the optional activities and their costs?

    Some activities and excursions are optional and may incur additional costs.

  • What are some of the special experiences included in the tour?

    Experience unique activities like a private boat ride in Venice, a visit to a traditional French perfumery in Eze, and an overnight Adriatic ferry to Greece.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, included meals are provided throughout the trip, offering a taste of local cuisine in various destinations.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with Barrhead?

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Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

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We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


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We look after you every step of the way.


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